Winter in South Carolina brings mild temperatures compared to northern states, but the season still has its challenges. Frosty mornings, occasional icy conditions, and chilly rain can create hazards for residents. These conditions can lead to injuries, even without heavy snow or extreme cold.
Slippery surfaces, cold weather sports, and simple accidents at home often result in common winter-related injuries. Here are some of the most frequent injuries and how winter weather contributes to them.
Slips and Falls on Icy Surfaces
Slips and falls often happen during winter due to icy surfaces. Black ice forms in unexpected areas, especially on shaded sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways. This thin, transparent layer of ice blends with pavement, making detection difficult. Even brief freezes overnight can create hazardous patches.
Common injuries from slips and falls include sprained ankles, fractured wrists, and concussions. Hip fractures and other severe injuries may result from harder falls. These injuries can lead to time away from work or limit mobility during recovery.
Preventing slips and falls involves staying cautious when walking during icy conditions. Proper footwear with good traction lowers the risk. Paying attention to walkways, avoiding distractions, and stepping carefully on icy paths help reduce accidents. Small adjustments in routines during colder mornings reduce injury risks significantly.
Car Accident Injuries
Icy roads during winter increase the risk of car accidents. Frost, sleet, and snow can make roads slippery, reducing tire traction. Drivers with little experience in winter conditions face more challenges. Quick stops, sharp turns, and speeding in icy conditions raise the chance of losing control. Limited visibility from snow or fog adds another layer of danger.
Winter car accidents often cause whiplash, cuts, and bruises. Whiplash happens when the head jerks forward and back during sudden impacts. Cuts and bruises commonly result from broken glass or airbag deployment. Severe crashes may lead to broken bones or concussions.
Careful preparation improves safety during winter driving. Drivers can slow down on icy or snowy roads to maintain control. Maintaining clear windshields allows better visibility. Using tires designed for winter conditions improves traction. Staying alert to road hazards helps drivers navigate safely in dangerous weather.
Sports-Related Injuries
Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating bring unique injury risks. Common injuries include sprains, strains, and fractures. Sprains happen when ligaments stretch or tear, often in the wrist or ankle, after a fall. Strains result from overworked muscles or tendons, frequently impacting the back or shoulders during repetitive movements. Fractures occur when sudden impacts break bones, such as falling incorrectly during a jump.
Proper preparation and awareness reduce the likelihood of injuries. Warm-up exercises increase flexibility, helping muscles and joints perform better. Wearing well-fitted gear and maintaining equipment ensures stability and protection. Recognizing personal skill limits and gradually taking on more challenging activities promotes safer experiences. Practicing proper techniques lowers strain on the body, reducing the chance of accidents during winter sports.
How an Attorney Can Help
When accidents or injuries occur during winter activities, consulting an attorney can be a key step in protecting your rights. Attorneys who work in personal injury or negligence cases can help determine liability, whether it involves unsafe premises, defective equipment, or reckless behavior of others. They guide clients through the legal process, assisting with gathering evidence, filing claims, and negotiating fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An attorney’s experience helps ensure that victims fully understand their legal options and rights, particularly in complex cases where multiple parties or insurance companies are involved. Their advocacy often secures better outcomes, helping individuals recover physically and financially while holding responsible parties accountable.
If you get hurt this winter season, Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC can help. We can investigate your case and help you seek compensation. You can schedule a free consultation with our team online or by phone at (843) 968-0886.